Find out below if you can travel to these cities in the Mainland US!
The world was slowed down by the pandemic, but it doesn’t mean that your travel plans and dreams should get delayed too.
Before we get into detail, here’s a Klook Tip: going ‘round the world is more open for vaccinated travelers, but if you’re unvaccinated or still waiting for your second dose, read on and see how you can get back into traveling again!
US travel requirements: vaccinated vs. unvaccinated travelers
Travelers who are fully vaccinated can enter the US with limited restrictions to follow. However, most unvaccinated travelers are not allowed to enter the country. Only vaccines that are approved by the US FDA and WHO are accepted, such as Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, and Janssen.
What should I bring?
If you’re vaccinated, here are the travel requirements you should bring at all times to ensure your entry to different cities in the US:
- Proof of vaccination
- Travel attestation form (provided by the airline)
Is quarantine still mandatory?
Good news, vaccinated travelers! Here’s a perk: you don’t need to go into quarantine anymore.
But, what if I’m unvaccinated?
Unvaccinated travelers have to go through 7-10 days of self-quarantine at the place they’re staying in and must take a viral test 3-5 days upon arrival. They are allowed to book their own hotel room if they wish to self-quarantine in a hotel. If the traveler tests negative, the mandatory 7-day quarantine must be completed. If the traveler tests positive, self-isolation until full recovery is required. In the instance that the viral test isn’t completed, the traveler must complete the mandatory 10-day quarantine.
Do I need to get a VISA?
Securing a VISA can be a hassle, but don’t worry ‘cause we’ll guide you through it!
Travelers coming from countries in the Visa Waiver Programme list are allowed to enter the US for up to 90 days with a valid passport and a filled up ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) form 72 hours prior to traveling.
Here are the countries included in the list:
Photo Credit: https://estaustravel.wordpress.com/2017/01/14/are-you-eligible-to-apply-for-esta-usa-visa/
Travelers coming from countries not included in the list but want to enter the US temporarily must get visitor visas such as the non-immigrant visa for business (visa category B-1), tourism (visa category B-2), or a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).
Things to remember during your trip to the US
While the US welcomes travelers with limited restrictions, there are still simple but important to-dos that should be followed so you can enjoy your trip from city to city:
- Wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth when in a public place
- Observe physical distancing from anyone who is not from your household
- Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
- Avoid contact with anyone who is sick
- Try not to touch your eyes, nose, or mouth
Things to do after your trip to the US
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises travelers to get tested 3-5 days after returning home. If you don’t get tested after returning from your trip, you must self-isolate for 10 days. Whether you get tested or not, avoid being around people who are at increased risk for severe illnesses for 14 days.
New CDC guidelines allow for quarantine to end after Day 7 so long as the traveler tests negative with the test being taken on Day 5 or after. Additionally, no symptoms should occur during the 14-day monitoring to ensure that the traveler is safe to go out again.
Where to go and what to do in Mainland US
There are so many fun places to visit in the US but we’ve narrowed it down for you! We’ve got Los Angeles, New York City, Las Vegas, and Orlando in this list so brace yourself and note the things you’ll need before heading out to any of these destinations.
Each city’s worth the visit so it’s up to you to go to 1, 2, 3, or all 4 of them!
Los Angeles
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Los Angeles is the core of the nation’s film and television industry, and it’s the home of Hollywood! LA is also packed with museums, amusement parks, observatories, and restaurants so you’ll surely find something to do and enjoy. Some must-visits include The Getty for art exhibits, Disneyland Park for rides and fun, Santa Monica Pier for more rides and restaurants, Universal Studios Hollywood for anything movie-themed, the Griffith Observatory for telescopes and city views, and the famous Hollywood sign atop Mount Lee.
New York City
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New York City is one of the most famous cities in the world. It’s a dream destination for many. Take a stroll in their many museums, parks, and attractions like Central Park and The Metropolitan Museum of Art. There’s also the Empire State Building with observatories for you to explore, the Brooklyn Bridge built in the 19th century, and Times Square, the heart of the city filled with lights and Broadway shows. Drop by the famous Statue of Liberty too while you’re at it.
Las Vegas
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Las Vegas is known as the place of nightlife and parties. It recognizes itself as the Entertainment Capital of the World and for good reason since casinos, trendy clubs, fine dining restaurants, and shopping streets are everywhere in the city. Some must-visits include the luxurious Bellagio Hotel & Casino, MGM Grand with a huge casino resort and clubs, the famous pyramid-shaped Luxor Hotel & Casino, and the Las Vegas Strip where you can shop, dine, and party!
Orlando
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Orlando is a city of fun since it houses more than a dozen amusement parks. It’s the destination for kids and kids at heart. Venture into different types of amusement parks both on land, and in water. Some of their most popular amusement parks include Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, Magic Kingdom Park, Universal Studios Florida, SeaWorld Orlando, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios!
With all the requirements for traveling to the US, going on a trip during the pandemic can be quite taxing but hey, we’ve laid them all out for you so plan that much-deserved break, vacation, and getaway!
But, wait! Just a final reminder that travel requirements may vary depending on the place you’ll visit in the cities mentioned above, so here’s another Klook Tip: visit your country’s US embassy for more information.
